Jabara Lesson Plan Challenge 3:
Like Terms
Coefficients, like terms, multiplying constants
Description
Students learn how to simplify an equation by multiplying constants and combining
variables with coefficients.
Objectives
Students will demonstrate how to combine like terms in an equation
Materials
Jabara game on mangahigh.com
Coefficients, like terms, multiplying constants worksheet
Procedures
Students should know how to simplify an equation and understand how to balance an
equation to isolate a variable.
Introduce the topic
Review the technique of balancing an equation by adding to both sides. Make sure
students are comfortable adding and subtracting negative numbers.
Introduce Jabara
Tell the students they are going to continue playing Jabara and will practice combining
variables in an equation. Break students up into pairs, or have them work individually
(working in pairs encourages discussion while learning, but is not always possible or
desirable). Let them play through the third Challenge (levels 41-60).
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Students can access the 3rd challenge by going to GAMES on the left of their screen,
then selecting ‘Jabara’ and then playing the game through from levels 41 to 60. They
must have already completed the 1st and 2nd challenges (levels 1 to 40).
Alternatively, you can set the 3rd challenge to your class
o Go to ACTIVITIES > select your class > use the search bar and type ‘Jabara’ >
from the list of Jabara challenges select the one for ‘Coefficients, like terms,
multiplying constants’ > click below the challenge name and ‘Assign New
Challenge’ from the dropdown
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When students login they can go to their ‘ASSIGNED’ list and select the ‘Jabara’
challenge on ‘Coefficients, like terms, multiplying constants. They don’t have to
complete levels 1 to 40 before hand
Assigning the challenge allows you to monitor student progress
Post game reflection
Ask students questions about what they did in the game to encourage a discussion. Ask
things like:
● Why do you think the 1 disappears when you drag it over the x?
● Why can’t you drag 2y onto -1x to combine them?
● Why does 0x disappear?
Post-game activity
Have students complete the ‘Coefficients, like terms, multiplying constants worksheet’.
This will review the techniques introduced in this part of the game. Ask if they have any
questions, and walk around the room while they work to encourage conversation and
questions.
Wrap up
Summarize the new concepts briefly and answer any questions students still have.